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Sugar Consumption and Cognitive Health

Posted on January 5, 2018 by | Comments Off on Sugar Consumption and Cognitive Health

SugarCognitiveHealthJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

While an occasional sweet treat is a pleasurable experience, daily overindulgence of added sugar is a major contributor to poor dental heath, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Moreover, many health professionals view sugars as toxic to cognitive health and function. Scientists now refer to Alzheimer’s disease as “diabetes of the brain” or type 3 diabetes. Glucose, a form of sugar, is the primary fuel source for our energy-demanding brains. This may lead one to wonder how a simple carbohydrate necessary for brain function can wreak havoc on mental, physical and psychological wellbeing. However, supplying the brain with energy is a delicate balancing act that doesn’t require the consumption of added sugars.

Proper glucose levels and efficient use of this energy source are closely linked to valuable brain functions such as thinking, memory and learning. Low glucose levels are linked to decreased production of neurochemicals, as well as poor cognitive function. High glucose levels are linked to memory problems and cognitive deficiencies. Science shows that our bodies don’t need added sugar for proper function, as sophisticated bodily functions break down complex carbohydrates into the simple sugars essential for cell and organ functioning. A whole food largely plant-based diet replete with vitamins, minerals, omega-3’s, fiber, good quality proteins, and healthy fats, provides sufficient brain fuel and supports overall health.

We know that type 2 diabetes accelerates brain aging, and that high glucose levels can negatively affect the brain’s functional connectivity, accelerating the progression of functional decline. Long term type 1 and type 2 diabetes can cause brain atrophy, and can lead to small vessel disease, resulting in cognitive difficulties and hastening the development of vascular dementia. An observational study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that higher blood glucose levels are associated with a greater risk of dementia, even among those not diagnosed with diabetes. The seven-year study, which adjusted data for cardiovascular factors already linked to dementia, such as high blood pressure and smoking, found that over the course of the study, approximately 25 percent of participants developed Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia.

The results showed a direct correlation between higher blood sugar levels and increased dementia risk, providing more evidence that the brain is a target for damage by high blood sugar. The typical American diet, high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars and industrial food toxins, is linked to inflammation, a major driver of chronic disease. Neuroinflammation is believed to be a cause of depression and other mental health disorders. Per board certified women’s holistic health psychiatrist, Kelly Brogan, MD., “Sugar has direct inflammatory effects on the body that may be related to its influence on gut microflora, its associated insulin spike or the glycation effects of circulating sugar on proteins. The more days of your life you engage in a pattern of sugar and refined carb consumption, the more your brain suffers, potentially putting you at risk for Alzheimer’s dementia down the line.”

Brain neurons are very sensitive cells and those with diabetes and high blood sugar are at risk of neuronal damage. Data shows that type 2 diabetes causes brain insulin resistance, oxidative stress and cognitive impairment. Persuasive evidence supports the hypothesis that Alzheimer’s represents a form of diabetes that selectively afflicts the brain. Although type 2 diabetes itself may not cause Alzheimer’s, it may serve as a cofactor in its pathogenesis or progression. Additionally, the strong link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease is seen to support the claim that sugar toxicity may be destroying mental health. While correlated with mild cognitive impairment in seniors, high sugar consumption has negative effects on children’s cognitive function as well.

While there are no simple answers, common sense actions that promote health throughout life may help to avoid or delay cognitive decline. There’s no single medication or action that has been found to preserve brain health. Currently, a mixed approach of healthy lifestyle choices is recommended to help maintain brain resiliency and function. Factors that play a role in supporting cognitive and overall health include controlling blood sugar and hypertension, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, engaging in regular physical and cognitively stimulating activities, and avoiding smoking and social isolation. Making a broad overall effort to reduce sugar and refined carbohydrate consumption, as well as a commitment to a healthier lifestyle is good advice for supporting cardiac, brain and overall health. Don’t delay, start today.

Professional Supplement Center carries many high quality products to support overall heath and healthy glucose levels:

Vanadium Complex...Vanadium Complex with Cinnulin PF® by Progressive™ Laboratories: This scientifically designed complex provides nutritional support for glucose metabolism, normal blood sugar levels, and pancreatic health, as well as insulin production and sensitivity. Natural ingredients help to manage sugar and carbohydrate cravings.  

 

Sweet Defense™Sweet Defense™ by Enzymatic Therapy®: This vitamin, mineral, botanical and glandular product provides nutrients for blood glucose, carbohydrate and energy metabolism. Sweet Defense™ may help with weight management by helping to reduce sugar cravings. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, yeast, preservative and artificial ingredient free.

 

Chromium (picolinate...Chromium Picolinate 500 mcg by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic supplement provides a highly usable form of chromium essential for proper glucose and lipid metabolism. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Glyco StressGlyco Stress by Biospec Nutritionals: This unique formula provides vitamins, minerals, and botanicals to nutritionally support the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as promote healthy glucose levels.

 

Glucose Support...Glucose Support Formula by Pure Encapsulations®: This hypoallergenic complex contains highly recognized ingredients that provide specific support for optimal pancreatic function, as well as   healthy glucose and fat metabolism. Ingredients include traditional botanicals, adaptogens, chromium and maitake medicinal mushroom. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

References:
Sugar and the Brain. http://neuro.hms.harvard.edu/harvard-mahoney-neuroscience-institute/brain-newsletter/and-brain-series/sugar-and-brain
High Blood Sugar Linked to Dementia. https://newoldage.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/08/09/high-blood-sugar-linked-to-dementia/
Dietary Sugar and Mental Illness: A Surprising Link. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-depression-cure/200907/dietary-sugar-and-mental-illness-surprising-link
Alzheimer’s Disease is Type 3 Diabetes-Evidence Reviewed. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2769828/

 

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Sugar Consumption and Cardiovascular Health

Posted on January 3, 2018 by | Comments Off on Sugar Consumption and Cardiovascular Health

SugarHealthJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

For decades the tobacco industry misled consumers by withholding revealing scientific data on the deadly health risks of smoking. Today, the sugar industry is in the spotlight for its role in downplaying the damaging health risks of excessive sugar consumption on cardiovascular health. According to a newly published article in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Internal Medicine, the early signs of the relationship between sugar consumption and coronary heart disease first emerged in the 1950’s. The journal researchers found that a group known as the Sugar Research Foundation (SRF) funded research executed by a team of Harvard scientists. Without disclosing their funding, the SRF set the objective, and contributed articles for inclusion. Their goal was to cast doubt about the health hazards of sugar, while promoting fat as the dietary cause of heart disease. The Harvard researchers concluded that cutting out fat, not sugar, was “no doubt” the best dietary intervention to prevent coronary heart disease.

JAMA researchers found that SRF’s internal documents revealed the sugar industry’s successful attempt to influence scientific study and debate. Circumstantial evidence indicates SRF shaped the conclusions of the Harvard review published in 1967. The review, led by the chairman of Harvard’s Public Health Nutrition Department, who was also an ad hoc board member of the SRF, minimized the significance of research that implicated sugar as a coronary health risk, while also influencing public health recommendations for reduced dietary fat consumption. Consequently, as people followed recommendations to eat less dietary fat, sugar consumption rose, along with obesity, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s.

Well into the 1970’s, the sugar industry continued to fund similar research surreptitiously. When asked to comment on the recent findings, the SRF admitted they should have exercised “greater transparency” of its industry funded studies, and added that “funding disclosures and transparency standards were not the norm they are today.” Though the documents that were examined are five decades old, this practice persists. The food industry continues to spend millions on nutrition research, while policy making committees continue to base dietary recommendations on food industry-funded studies. New York University Nutrition scholar, Marion Nestle, PhD, MPH, who spent a year informally tracking these studies found that approximately “90 percent of studies funded by the food industry resulted in outcomes that favored the sponsor’s interest.” It appears that when the food industry funds research, it often gets the pro-industry desired conclusion that it paid for.

“The longstanding influence of food industry funding on nutrition research, researchers, and professional societies threatens the credibility of nutrition science,” says Nestle. During a seven-month period, Nestle identified 76 industry-funded studies. Of these, 70 reported results favorable to the sponsor’s interest. Independently funded studies have found correlations between sugary drinks, obesity and poor health, while studies funded by the soda industry did not. Research funded by the National Confectioners Association concluded that children who eat sweets have healthier body weights than those who don’t. Coca-Cola, the world’s largest producer of sugary drinks, backed a “science-based” solution to the obesity crisis. Coke has provided financial and logistical support to a new nonprofit organization called the Global Energy Balance Network, which works to convince weight conscious Americans that they simply need to exercise more rather than be overly concerned about how much fast food and soda they consume.

In truth, many Americans do need to be more physically active. However, they also need to eat smarter, as exercise expends far fewer calories than most people realize. Independent scientific research indicates that limiting intake of high glycemic foods, such as refined carbohydrates and sugary foods and drinks, greatly impacts weight management. Sugar sweetened drinks are the largest source of added sugar in the average American diet. Sugar not only delivers empty calories, devoid of fiber, vitamins, minerals and other health promoting nutrients, it may also crowd healthier foods from the diet. Studies show that those with high sugar consumption have a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality, even when they also consume heart healthy vegetables and fruits.

How does sugar harm the heart? Cardiovascular disease is mainly associated with atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty plaque deposits build up in the linings of blood vessels and restrict blood flow. A 15-year study on added sugar and heart disease found participants who consumed 25% or more of their daily calories as sugar were more than twice as likely to die from heart disease than those whose diets included less than 10% added sugar. This major study published in JAMA found that a sugar-laden diet raised the risk of cardiac morality even in those who were not overweight.  A high sugar diet has been shown to cause abnormalities including high total cholesterol, high triglycerides, insulin resistance, oxidized LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, and abnormal glucose tolerance, all of which are implicated in heart disease.

Sugar’s overall effect on these numerous health markers is likely more detrimental to overall health than consumption of saturated fat, which can increase LDL, but at the same time raise HDL. Sugar contributes to insulin spikes and the inflammation that harms the fragile endothelial lining of blood vessels, and promotes obesity, prediabetes and diabetes type 2, putting those with these conditions at greater risk of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons or 100 calories a day of added sugar for women, and no more than 9 teaspoons or 150 calories a day for men. Along with decreased sugar and ultra-processed food consumption, a diet of whole foods, as well as increased exercise is highly recommended for cardiovascular and overall good health.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality products to support overall wellness:

PGX DailyPGX® Daily by Bioclinic Naturals: This proprietary highly viscous fiber blend is formulated to support healthy glucose metabolism by lowering the glycemic index of meals. Fiber viscosity is associated with increased satiety, reduced appetite, improved regularity and healthy weight maintenance. Gluten, wheat, dairy, yeast, and artificial sweetener free.

Cinnamon Biotin...Cinnamon Biotin Chromium Complex by Natrol®: The 100% vegetarian antioxidant complex provides support for sugar, protein, and fat metabolism, and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels already within the normal range. Gluten, wheat, dairy, egg, sugar, and artificial ingredient free.

Chromium SynergyChromium Synergy™ by Designs for Health®: This synergistic blend of chelated minerals provides highly absorbable nutrients to assist blood sugar control. Ingredients include zinc, manganese, chromium, taurine and vanadium. Gluten, wheat, yeast, dairy, soy, sugar, preservative, and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Alpha Lipoic Acid...Alpha Lipoic Acid 400 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: This exceptionally versatile nutrient provides antioxidant protection, as well as support for nerve health, cardiovascular function, and glucose metabolism. Gluten and soy free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Sweet Defense™Sweet Defense™ by Enzymatic Therapy®: This vitamin, mineral, botanical and glandular supplement provides support for glucose, carbohydrate, and energy metabolism. Along with a healthy diet and exercise, Sweet Defense™ may help manage weight and reduce sugar cravings. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, yeast, sugar, and preservative free formulation.

References:
Sugar Industry and Coronary Heart Disease Research. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2548255?redirect=true
The Food Industry’s Influence In Nutrition Research. https://www.npr.org/2016/09/17/494360187/industry-influence-in-nutrition-research
Corporate Funding of Food and Nutrition Research. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2471609
Coca-Cola Funds Scientists Who Shift Blame for Obesity Away From Bad Diets. https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/08/09/coca-cola-funds-scientists-who-shift-blame-for-obesity-away-from-bad-diets/
Eating too much added sugar increases the risk of dying of heart disease. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/eating-too-much-added-sugar-increases-the-risk-of-dying-with-heart-disease-201402067021
Sugar consumption plays greater role in heart disease than saturated fat. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/01/160113103318.htm

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Let’s Talk About Sugar

Posted on October 25, 2017 by | Comments Off on Let’s Talk About Sugar

SugarTalkJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

While a bit of sugar in your morning coffee may sweeten the cup, the typical American consumes an average of 22 teaspoons or 110 grams of sugar daily, equating to an extra 350 non-nutritive calories every day. The key word here is average, as per the Obesity Society, the top 20 percent of adult consumers are eating an additional 721 empty calories daily. Equally alarming is the fact that the top 20 percent of children are consuming an average of 673 calories from added sugars each day. Research shows that added sugar consumption has increased by more than 30 percent over the last three decades. Along with increased consumption, the general state of health of Americans has declined. Data shows that two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese, one child in six is obese, and almost 115 million adults have diabetes or prediabetes.

While controversy reigns over how much added sugar is too much, the nearly 66 pounds that the average American consumes yearly can be construed as more than a bit excessive, especially when compared to the American Heart Association (AHA) recommendation of no more than six teaspoons daily for women and nine teaspoons a day for men. The World Health Organization (WHO) takes it a step further and recommends that everyone reduce their daily intake of added sugars to less than six teaspoons, or below five percent of total daily calories.

How is added sugar harmful to health?

As opposed to sugars naturally present in healthy nutritious foods, such as dairy and fruit, added sugars are omnipresent in processed foods, sweetened beverages, condiments, and formerly healthy, but highly sugar laden foods, such many cereals and yogurts, marketed to both children and adults. Over time, overconsumption of added sugars can negatively affect natural hunger and satiety hormone balance, leading to insulin and leptin resistance.

While added sugars may supply a short-term energy boost, they provide no nutritive benefit and decease nutrient density in the diet, often contributing to the risk of inflammation, tooth decay, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and type 2 diabetes, as well as classic metabolic syndrome with symptoms of weight gain, abdominal obesity, high blood pressure and elevated triglycerides and blood sugar.

What happens when you give up sugar:

Those who are accustomed to a high sugar diet can experience disagreeable short-term side effects when eliminating sugar from the diet. Sugar dependency can bring on withdrawal symptoms when sugar is restricted, resulting in irritability, fatigue and headaches. Fortunately, the unpleasant side effects are short-lived, while the positive health effects like better sleep, stable energy levels, improved immune health, lowered triglycerides and more stabilized blood sugar will remain if the diet continues to be low in sugar.

Reducing the amount of sugar in the diet can result in a healthier weight, smaller waist size, healthier looking skin, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Very importantly, above normal blood sugar, even in those without diabetes, is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. Researchers at the Harvard Medical School found that any incremental increase in blood sugar increased vascular disease, as well as metabolic issues such as insulin resistance.

Transitioning to a sugar restricted diet:

Hydration, nourishing foods, and healthy fats can help to keep the appetite and cravings under control, and reduce withdrawal symptoms while transitioning to a healthier pattern of eating. Choosing whole, unprocessed high fiber foods, and skipping foods with lengthy ingredient lists will help one eliminate sources of added sugars. Enjoy an occasional sweet treat, but be aware of the total amount of sugar consumed daily. Individuals who are looking to stabilize or reduce their blood sugar level, may also consider reducing refined carbohydrates, especially those who are prediabetic or overweight.

Those who are willing to shift to a healthier eating pattern that restricts added sugars and refined carbohydrates can make a real difference in their health. Above normal blood sugar can be lowered with proper diet and increased physical activity. Taking short, but frequent walking breaks, small amounts of activity throughout the day, and taking a walk after a meal can make a difference in improved physical and mental wellness.

Professional Supplement Center offers many high quality formulations to support health and wellness needs:

Blood Sugar SupportBlood Sugar Support by Vital Nutrients: This synergistic blend of traditional adaptogens, cinnamon, and micronutrients provides support for optimal pancreatic function, lean muscle mass, healthy HDL levels, and normal blood sugar levels in healthy individuals. Gluten, soy, dairy, and sugar free formulation.

Sweet Defense™Sweet Defense™ by Enzymatic Therapy®: This formula provides nutrients necessary for blood glucose, carbohydrate, and energy metabolism. Along with a healthy diet and exercise, Sweet Defense™, helps to reduce sugar cravings and may help with weight management. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy and preservative free formulation.

CraveArrestCraveArrest™ by Designs for Health®: Formulated to promote optimal neurotransmitter balance and a healthy stress response, CraveArrest™ provides superior anti-craving results. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, sugar and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Gluco-ResponseGluco-Response™ by NuMedica®: This unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and botanicals may support the maintenance of healthy blood sugar and triglyceride levels, as well as healthy glucose and insulin metabolism. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy and egg free, vegetarian formulation.

Gluco-Support...Gluco-Support Formula™ by Douglas Laboratories®: This synergistic and comprehensive complex provides vitamins, minerals, botanicals, micronutrients and trace elements specifically formulated to offer support for healthy glucose metabolism. Gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, sugar, and artificial ingredient free, vegetarian formulation.

References:
U.S. Adult Consumption of Added Sugars Increased by More Than 30% Over Three Decades. http://www.obesity.org/news/press-releases/us-adult
How Much Is Too Much? http://sugarscience.ucsf.edu/the-growing-concern-of-overconsumption/
Sugar 101. http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/HealthyEating/Nutrition/Sugar-101_UCM_306024_Article.jsp
How to Ease Withdrawal Symptoms When You Quit Sugar, According to a Nutritionist. http://www.health.com/nutrition/sugar-free-diet-help
Short Term Side Effects of a Decreased Sugar Diet. http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/short-term-side-effects-decreased-sugar-diet-1397.html
Eating too much added sugar increases the risk of dying with heart disease. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/eating-too-much-added-sugar-increases-the-risk-of-dying-with-heart-disease-201402067021
Added Sugar Intake and Cardiovascular Diseases Mortality Among US Adults. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1819573
Added Sugar in the Diet. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/added-sugar-in-the-diet/
WHO calls on countries to reduce sugars intake among adults and children. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2015/sugar-guideline/en/
Too Much Can Make Us Sick. http://sugarscience.ucsf.edu/too-much-can-make-us-sick/
Above-normal blood sugar linked to dementia. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/above-normal-blood-sugar-linked-to-dementia-201308076596
Statistics About Diabetes. http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/statistics/

 

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